Abraham Lincoln

  • Birth date of Abraham Lincoln

    On this day, Abraham Lincoln was born in a one room log cabin.
  • Abraham Lincoln Helps Friends and Neighbors

    Lincoln, now 15, plows, plants, and does work-for-hire for neighbors. He attends school in the fall and winter, and borrows books and reads whenever possible..
  • Life of Politics start

    After moving to Illinois, Lincoln makes his first-ever political speech in favor of improving navigation on the Sangamon River.
  • Lincoln announces candidacy

    Lincoln announces his candidacy for the Illinois General Assembly, running on a platform for improved navigation on the Sangamon River, changes in usury laws, and universal education.
  • Begins studying law

    Abraham studies law using borrowed books.
  • Lincoln runs for office again

    At the age of 24, Lincoln is elected to the Illinois General Assembly as a member of the Whig Party.
  • Practcing law

    Lincoln receives his license to practice law.
  • Nomination to be Whig candidate for U.S. Congress

    Lincoln is nominated to be the Whig candidate for U.S. Congress—he is elected on August 3. The first known photographs are taken of the Lincolns some time after his election.
  • 16th President

    Lincoln is elected as the 16th president of the united states
  • Emancipation Proclamation

    President Lincoln issues the final Emancipation Proclamation freeing all slaves in territories held by Confederates.